What this ECU is
The Elite PRO Plug-in ECU for the Ford Falcon I6 "Barra" is a direct replacement for the factory engine computer. It connects to the OEM harness, drives the factory coils and injectors, and adds a 34-pin auxiliary connector for the extra sensors and outputs a modified Barra usually ends up needing. It works for naturally aspirated and turbocharged engines, and it's also offered as a kit with the onboard wideband sensor.
Which cars it fits
| Falcon model | Years | Manual | ZF 6HP26 auto |
|---|---|---|---|
| BA | 2002-2005 | Yes | Not listed |
| BF | 2005-2008 | Yes | Yes |
| FG MkI | 2008-2011 | Yes | Yes |
| FG MkII | 2011-2014 | Yes | Yes |
All of these are the 4.0-liter DOHC VCT Barra. Supported engine codes are the 182, 190, 240T, 245T and 270T. For the engine itself, see our Barra engine notes.
What it controls
- ZF 6HP26 automatic: controlled on board over CAN, so no separate transmission controller is needed. See ZF 6-speed support.
- Fuel: gasoline, methanol and ethanol, with a direct flex fuel sensor input for E85.
- Wideband: one built-in channel for a Bosch LSU 4.9 sensor.
- Cams: independent control of both variable cams, with auto tune.
- Boost: closed loop, with targets by gear, wheel speed or time.
- Idle and lambda: closed loop idle with learning, and dual-bank closed loop O2.
- Knock control with fast digital filtering.
- Motorsport: anti-lag and launch control, in drag and rally modes.
- Street: cruise control, OBDII diagnostics (read and clear codes, live data).
- Learning: short and long term trims for fuel, ignition, boost and idle.
- Protection: multi-level engine protection based on sensor limits.
Tuning is done in ESP, with 4D base tables, 3D per-cylinder compensations and user-defined corrections.
Inputs, outputs and connectivity
| Area | Detail |
|---|---|
| Injectors | 6 current-controlled peak-and-hold drivers for the factory injectors, high or low impedance |
| Staged injection | 8 more injector outputs on the auxiliary connector: programmable peak current 0-8 A and hold 0-2 A, or used as spare digital outputs |
| Ignition | 6 outputs that drive the Ford coils directly, no external igniter required |
| Throttle | Drive by wire output for the Ford throttle and pedal, or other throttle bodies |
| Extra inputs | 4 user-definable analog voltage inputs and 4 digital pulsed inputs (duty, frequency or state) on the auxiliary plug |
| Triggers | Barra pattern supported, with other generic triggers available |
| CAN | Two buses: vehicle CAN and Haltech CAN (on the auxiliary connector) |
| Laptop | USB through a small circular connector |
| Logging | On board, 2 MB, up to 40 channels at up to 5 ms per sample |
The auxiliary connector is where most of your build-specific wiring goes. Our auxiliary connector pinout and example wiring configurations cover it, and the auxiliary connector kit gives you a ready-made plug.
Power and physical specs
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Supply voltage | 6.5 to 16 V DC |
| 5 V sensor supply | 100 mA maximum |
| Case | Die-cast aluminum, IP66 water resistant |
| Length x width | 7.9 x 7.0 in (200 x 177 mm) |
| Height | 1.16 in (29.5 mm) body, 1.87 in (47.5 mm) including connector |
Keep an eye on that 100 mA sensor supply if you add a lot of extra 5 V sensors. Pressure sensors are small loads, but it adds up.
Plug-in or full harness?
If the factory loom is in good shape, the plug-in is the fastest route to a proper standalone. If the engine is going into another chassis, or the loom is tired, a terminated harness with an Elite 2500 is the better path: see the BA/BF and FG kits. Before first start, work through the Barra quick start guide.
FAQ
Do I need a separate transmission controller for the ZF auto?
No. On the listed BF and FG automatics the ECU runs the ZF 6HP26 itself over CAN.
Can it run E85?
Yes. It supports gasoline, methanol and ethanol, and has a direct input for a flex fuel sensor.
Does it need igniters for the factory coils?
No. The ignition outputs drive the OEM Ford coils directly. Not sure which setup suits your build? Book a free consultation.
